Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support the calls by Senator Bacik for a debate on undocumented migrants in Ireland and on child care, both of which issues deserve the attention of the Seanad.

I rise today to raise an issue I have raised in the Seanad on several occasions, namely, the Diageo "Stop Out-of-Control Drinking" campaign. I welcome the additional resignation from that campaign. The first resignation was by Dr. Ciara Kelly. Some ten days ago, the organisation, MyMind, withdrew from the campaign and I have recently received confirmation that St. Patrick's Mental Health Services has withdrawn from it. I call on the other organisations who are lending their credibility and reputations to a Diageo campaign to withdraw from it. We know from the World Health Organization and from experience in Ireland provided by the substance misuse group that the drinks industry has no role to play in public health campaigns. I believe that is a view which this House should stand over.

This afternoon and again on Thursday, the Joint Committee on Health and Children will hold hearings on the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill. I call on all Senators to fully support that Bill which provides us with an opportunity to do something about the drinking culture in Ireland and alcohol-related harm. I also call on my colleagues to sign-up to and support the Alcohol Health Alliance Ireland, which comprises the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and Alcohol Action Ireland and calls on Members to ensure they have no links to the drinks industry. I ask Senators to check out the Alcohol Health Alliance and give it their full support.

I congratulate the Irish men and women's rugby teams. Last weekend was a very proud weekend for Ireland. It was great to see sporting success on the field. On that note, I ask that Irish women's rugby be given greater prominence and support by all, including our national broadcaster.